What is the average salary in Emporia, KS?
Job seekers in Emporia, KS, can expect competitive salaries across various industries. The average yearly salary stands at $53,277, offering a good earning potential. This average is influenced by several sectors, each contributing to the overall economic landscape of the city.
Major industries in Emporia include healthcare, education, retail, and manufacturing. These sectors pay salaries ranging from $23,000 to over $155,000. The distribution of salaries indicates a balanced job market with opportunities across different income brackets. Healthcare professionals, for instance, can earn up to $131,000, while educators and retail workers typically earn between $23,000 and $47,000 annually. Manufacturing and other technical roles provide salaries around $95,000 to $119,000. These figures reflect the diverse economic opportunities available in Emporia, making it a viable location for job seekers looking to balance career aspirations with financial stability.
What are the best paying jobs in Emporia, KS?

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Speech Language Pathologist
Average Salary: $82,366
This role involves working with individuals with communication disorders. Professionals help patients improve their speech, language, and swallowing abilities. They often work in hospitals, clinics, and schools.
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Registered Nurse
Average Salary: $75,271
RNs play a vital role in patient care. They administer medications, monitor vital signs, and assist doctors with procedures. Many work in hospitals and outpatient clinics, ensuring patients receive quality care.
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Retail Sales Associate
Average Salary: $59,314
This position involves helping customers find products and completing sales transactions. Associates often work in department stores, grocery stores, and other retail settings. Strong customer service skills are key.
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Licensed Practical Nurse
Average Salary: $54,050
LPNs provide basic patient care under the supervision of RNs or doctors. They take vital signs, administer medications, and assist with patient hygiene. LPNs work in hospitals, nursing homes, and outpatient facilities.
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General Manager
Average Salary: $49,988
General managers oversee daily operations in businesses. They manage staff, handle customer service, and ensure smooth operations. Many work in retail, hospitality, and food service industries.
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Maintenance Technician
Average Salary: $41,118
Maintenance technicians repair and maintain equipment and facilities. They work in various settings, including schools, offices, and manufacturing plants. Attention to detail and problem-solving skills are important.
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General Laborer
Average Salary: $38,392
General laborers perform a variety of tasks, often in manual or physical roles. They might assist with construction, cleaning, or warehouse operations. Physical stamina and willingness to learn are key.
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Delivery Driver
Average Salary: $36,941
Delivery drivers transport goods to customers. They often work for courier services, restaurants, or retail stores. Safe driving skills and time management are essential.
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Shift Leader
Average Salary: $29,497
Shift leaders supervise a team during a specific shift. They ensure tasks are completed and manage staff. Many work in retail, food service, or manufacturing, ensuring smooth operations.
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Cashier
Average Salary: $25,928
Cashiers handle transactions at registers. They process payments, provide customer service, and assist with sales. Many work in retail stores, grocery stores, and other sales environments.
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What are the best paying jobs in Emporia, KS without a degree?

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Loader
Average Salary: $38,118
This role involves moving goods and materials with forklifts. You can find positions with local grocery stores and distribution centers. These companies often value your ability to load and unload freight with care and efficiency.
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Barista
Average Salary: $29,054
Creating coffee and non-coffee drinks at cafes is what baristas do. These positions often involve interacting with customers and ensuring high-quality beverages. Local coffee shops and fast-food chains offer these jobs.
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Server
Average Salary: $28,729
Serving food and drinks to customers in restaurants is the main task. This job requires a friendly demeanor and good communication skills. Opportunities are available at family-owned diners and casual dining restaurants.
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Housekeeping
Average Salary: $26,758
Ensuring guest rooms and public areas are clean falls under this role. This job includes making beds, changing linens, and tidying up spaces. Opportunities exist at hotels and motels.
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Line Cook
Average Salary: $26,347
Preparing meals quickly and efficiently in a restaurant setting is the focus. This position involves working with chefs and other kitchen staff. Local eateries and fast-food restaurants offer these jobs.
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Which companies offer the top salaries in Emporia, KS?

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Emporia State University
Average Salary: $60,931
Emporia State University is a public university that offers a variety of academic programs. It provides competitive salaries and benefits to its employees.
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Newman Regional Health
Average Salary: $54,468
Newman Regional Health is a healthcare organization offering medical services. They value their employees, providing them with good compensation.
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Emporia Presbyterian Manor
Average Salary: $45,606
Emporia Presbyterian Manor is a senior living facility. They offer a supportive work environment with fair compensation.
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CrossWinds Counseling & Wellness
Average Salary: $44,926
CrossWinds Counseling & Wellness provides mental health services. They offer competitive salaries to their professionals.
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Lyon County Kansas
Average Salary: $44,271
Lyon County Kansas is a local government entity. They offer public service jobs with good pay and benefits.
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Simmons Foods
Average Salary: $43,966
Simmons Foods is a company in the food industry. They offer jobs with salaries reflecting their industry standing.
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Presbyterian Manors of Mid America
Average Salary: $42,830
Presbyterian Manors of Mid America is a healthcare provider. They focus on employee well-being, offering decent salaries.
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Taco Bell
Average Salary: $27,700
Taco Bell is a fast-food chain. They provide entry-level positions with competitive wages for the industry.
How does the cost of living in Emporia, KS compare to the national average?

The cost of living index for Emporia, KS, shows how living expenses in this city compare to the national average, which is set at 100. People looking to move to or from Emporia will find these comparisons helpful. Housing costs in Emporia are notably lower, with an index of 75. This means that housing expenses here are 25% less than the national average. For those considering a move, this could mean more affordable living options.
Other living costs in Emporia also compare favorably to the national average. Groceries have an index of 90, meaning they are 10% less expensive than average. Utilities cost 85, which is 15% lower. Transportation costs are at 80, also 20% below the national average. Healthcare, at 95, is just 5% higher than the average. Miscellaneous costs are at 88, which is 12% lower. Overall, Emporia provides a cost-effective living environment for many expenses, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious individuals and families.



